Practice HESI Fundamentals Exam Related

Review Practice HESI Fundamentals Exam related questions and content

A nurse in a primary care clinic is assessing a client who has a history of herpes zoster. Which of the following findings suggests that the client has postherpetic neuralgia?

  • A. Linear clusters of vesicles on the right shoulder.
  • B. Purulent drainage from both eyes.
  • C. Decreased white blood cell count.
  • D. Report of continued pain following resolution of the rash.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Report of continued pain following resolution of the rash. Postherpetic neuralgia is a complication of herpes zoster characterized by persistent pain that continues even after the rash has resolved. This pain can be severe and debilitating, affecting the quality of life of the individual. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because linear clusters of vesicles on the right shoulder would suggest an active herpes zoster outbreak, purulent drainage from both eyes would indicate an eye infection unrelated to postherpetic neuralgia, and a decreased white blood cell count is not typically associated with postherpetic neuralgia.